Independent Living Communities in Utah

Utah’s independent living communities are for healthy, retired seniors who want to live more peacefully and have the freedom to create their own schedules. Independent living offer seniors the chance to stay involved and connected in their communities while having less to worry about. Most residents are still very active and do not need any assistance unless they choose to take advantage of the services provided. Whether it's a studio apartment, a small cottage or anything in between, independent living is quickly becoming one of the most popular long-term care options for seniors.

Cost Comparison of Utah Independent Living

Utah has 42 independent living communities with the average cost of $1,806 per month.

Comparing costs is a great place to start when looking for an independent senior living option. One of the key benefits to this care type is the range of amenities found in different communities. Utah independent living includes housekeeping services, transportation, fitness centers, and meal plans with your monthly payments. More amenities are available depending on your unique community. Here are a few costs found throughout Utah.

Recreation & Attractions in Utah

Utah has many natural landmarks that define the state. Some of these attractions include the Bryce Canyon National Park, the Great Salt Lake, Arches National Park, and Lake Powell. The Bryce Canyon National Park has the Bryce Canyon as the central focus. It has a collection of hoodoo structures, which are tall, thin rocks that are orange, red and white. The Arches National Park has over 2,000 natural sandstone arches and all kinds of wildlife such as the kangaroo rat, mule deer, antelope squirrel, Western collared lizard and more.

The Arches National Park has many well-known features such as the Balanced Rock and the Delicate Arch. The Balanced Rock is the size of three school buses resting on another rock structure. The Delicate Arch is the most famous arch and the symbol of Utah. Lake Powell is a beautiful lake and has one of the world’s largest natural arches, which is named Rainbow Bridge.

Utah's Climate, Geography & Culture

Utah is known for having a dry, continental climate. This means warm summers and cold winters, though, with three distinct regions across the state, weather may vary. The summer months bring average temperatures in the 80s and 90s, while winters bring chilly temperatures between 30 and 40 degrees. The state receives about 19 inches of rainfall and 47 inches of snowfall per year.

The culture of Utah has been heavily influenced by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, also known as the Mormon religion. The first settlers to the region arrived in Salt Lake in 1848, which is the same year Utah became part of the U.S. Generally speaking, Mormon conservatism can still be seen in small rural towns where Sunday is considered a day of rest and where drinking among other things is frowned upon. However, recent years have seen a relaxing of these ideals as more outsiders come to the region to take advantage of the states clean, safe cities, and abounding natural beauty.

Utah's Independent Living Regulations and Laws

All rules and regulations of Utah independent living communities are overseen by The Department of Administrative Services. These regulations ensure that all communities meet the appropriate health, safety, and medical conditions. Annual reports of are to be made public upon request, detailing any past violations and the steps taken to correct them. Your safety and satisfaction are of utmost importance to your community and fellow residents, so never feel discouraged from airing your grievance if you think a violation has been made.

Crime & Safety in Utah

Crime in Utah is relatively consistent with the national median. Although property crimes are slightly higher than average, violent crimes are lower than most of the nation. When choosing a long-term care option it can be beneficial to find a nursing home in Utah located within a safe community. Listed here are a few of the safest cities found throughout the state.

Payment Options for Utah Independent Living

Since Medicare and Medicaid don't cover the costs associated with independent living in Utah, most seniors pay with their own private funds or through long-term care insurance. If these are unavailable to you, it may be necessary to consider other options.

U.S. veterans can receive up to $1,644 a month, $1,949 as a married couple, or $1,056 as a surviving spouse of a veteran. Citizens over 65 may also be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) at a rate of $733 a month. To qualify for SSI you must have a disability (including blindness), support a dependent, or lack a sustainable income otherwise.

Senior & Elderly Rights for Independent Living in Utah

Residents of independent living communities in Utah retain their rights to personal privacy, to file official complaints, and most importantly receive the care they need in a safe, welcoming environment. As a senior in an independent living community, you reserve the right to manage your own medical care and oversee your personal finances. The rights afforded to you by the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights must also be respected at all times. If you have reason to suspect that your rights have been violated, don't hesitate to contact a lawyer familiar with elder law. For assistance in learning about and exercising your rights, you can review the Utah Ombudsman for more details.

Utah Independent Living Medical Record Rules & Regulations

In accordance with state and federal HIPAA laws, residents of independent living communities in Utah are entitled to access their records by request. Your health care provider is legally obligated to maintain your medical records 7 years following the performance of a medical service, although they are usually kept longer. This information is highly personal and private, so it is required that your files be kept confidential and may only be shared with your permission and the supervision of your health care provider.

Finding the perfect senior care community is only part of making your loved one’s senior living transition smooth. At SeniorCaring, we know that it is also equally important to be aware of what other community services and resources are available to your family’s senior. Choose your location and find local resources for your senior.